Sustainable fashion is becoming more and more important as people recognize the environmental and social impact of the fashion industry. However, one of the biggest challenges facing sustainable fashion is accessibility. Sustainable fashion can be more expensive and harder to find than fast fashion options, making it difficult for many people to make the switch. Not to mention – sustainable brands aren’t known for inclusive sizing or affordable prices. In this post, we’ll explore some ways to make sustainable fashion more accessible, including tips for finding sustainable options, shopping secondhand, and making your own clothing.
Educate yourself on sustainable fashion
The first step to making sustainable fashion more accessible is to educate yourself on the topic. By learning about the environmental and social impact of the fashion industry, as well as sustainable fashion options, you can make informed decisions about your fashion choices. Some great resources for learning about sustainable fashion include books, documentaries, and online articles (including some of mine!)
Shop secondhand
Shopping secondhand is a great way to reduce the environmental impact of your clothing consumption and make sustainable fashion more accessible. Secondhand stores and online marketplaces like Poshmark (check out my review) and thredUP (and my other post on thredUP) offer a wide range of clothing options at affordable prices. By buying secondhand, you are giving new life to clothing that might otherwise end up in a landfill, and you are reducing the demand for new clothing production.
Support sustainable fashion brands
Supporting sustainable fashion brands is another way to make sustainable fashion more accessible. While sustainable fashion brands can be more expensive than fast fashion options, they often offer higher quality clothing that lasts longer and has less of an environmental impact. Look for brands that prioritize ethical and sustainable production practices, such as using organic or recycled materials and paying fair wages to workers. I personally have shared my love for Reformation, Farm Rio, and Veja!
Invest in versatile pieces
Investing in versatile pieces is another way to make sustainable fashion more accessible. By choosing clothing items that can be worn in a variety of ways and for different occasions, you can reduce the need for multiple clothing items and save money in the long run. Look for pieces like basic t-shirts, neutral-colored pants, and simple dresses that can be dressed up or down and worn year-round.
Make your own clothing
Making your own clothing is another way to make sustainable fashion more accessible. While it may seem daunting at first, there are many online resources and tutorials that can help you learn to sew and create your own clothing. By making your own clothing, you can choose the materials you use and create pieces that fit your personal style and body shape.
Host clothing swaps
Hosting clothing swaps is another way to make sustainable fashion more accessible. Clothing swaps allow you to exchange clothing items with friends and family members, giving new life to clothing that might otherwise go unused. Clothing swaps are also a fun way to connect with others and try out new styles without spending money.
Choose timeless pieces
Choosing timeless pieces is another way to make sustainable fashion more accessible. By choosing classic styles and neutral colors, you can create a wardrobe that is versatile and long-lasting. Avoid trendy items that will quickly go out of style and need to be replaced.
Rent clothing
Renting clothing is another way to make sustainable fashion more accessible. Online rental services like Rent the Runway offer a wide range of clothing options at affordable prices, allowing you to wear designer clothing without the environmental impact of buying new. Renting clothing is also a great option for special occasions, when you may only need a dress or suit for a short period of time.
Support local makers
Supporting local makers is another way to make sustainable fashion more accessible. Local makers often use sustainable materials and production methods, and they may be able to offer affordable prices due to lower overhead costs. Look for local makers at craft fairs and online marketplaces like Etsy.
Making sustainable fashion more accessible is a crucial step towards a more sustainable future. By educating ourselves and finding small ways to gradually incorporate sustainable fashion into our wardrobes, we can all play a part in investing in the future of sustainable fashion.
